Empowering women not only strengthens families and society but also nurtures future generations dedicated to nation-building.
This was the statement of Senator Cynthia Villar as she delivered her speech during the International Women Empowerment Assembly on November 6 at the Manila Prince Hotel, Ermita in Manila.
The event, organized by the Global Peace Foundation, Global Peace Women, International Council of Women, and the National Council of Women of the Philippines, carried the theme “Peace and Sustainable Development.”
Recognizing the significant role of women in a family and society, Senator Villar said she has been passionate in advocating for economic empowerment of women particularly those in the marginalized communities.
Along with their family foundation, the Senator said the Villar Foundation had established around 3,000 community-based livelihood projects and enterprises nationwide.
These include among others the waterlily basket-weaving enterprise, handmade paper factory, coconet-weaving enterprise, charcoal-making factory, organic fertilizer making, bamboo processing, and agricultural-related livelihood programs in farm tourism facilities and farm schools.
“And I am proud to share with you that the women are a dominant force in these livelihood enterprises. I constantly remind these hardworking women that earning their own income enhances the welfare of their families,” Villar said.
She noted women’s economic participation is crucial to the nation’s growth, as it enables women to contribute significantly to their household’s well-being and the education of their children, who will become tomorrow’s leaders and nation-builders.
The inclusion of all sectors, particularly women who have by unique strength and perspectives, she explained, is essential to craft solutions for a balanced ecosystem, equitable progress, and community welfare.
Recognizing these as steps toward a stable and flourishing future, she further explained, “We are here, as empowered women, to contribute valuable insights on peace and sustainable development. We bring forth the unique blend of women qualities like emotional intelligence, a collaborative spirit, inclination for inclusivity, effective communication, creativity, along with strategic long-term thinking and commitment to ethical leadership.”
